Mendel, an accordion player with a klezmer band in Eastern Europe, makes happy and sad music in and around his hometown of Melnitze, a practice he continues after moving to America, but with each succeeding generation the accordion becomes less popular until his great-grandson Samuel makes the decision to learn to play Mendel's music.
Describes the music types, musical styles, sounds, and instruments characteristic of Africa, discusses the role of music in the culture and religion of the region, and looks at how new technologies, as well outside influences, have changed African music.
Introduces some of the instruments used in world music, including the Indian sitar and tabla, Australian didgeridu and bullroarer, and African kora and sansa.
Describes the various types of music central to African American life, with historical information and biographical sketches of prominent black musicians.
Provides an almanac and encyclopedia of Christopher Paolini's world of Alaga?sia, the magical land of the Inheritance cycle, discussing mysterious people, objects, and places.
Contains a comprehensive study of the history and trends associated with adolescent sports literature covering such topics as sports in both fiction and non-fiction, literature for young women, and young adult novels about coaches and team leaders.
Presents a critical look at the use of humor in the canon of young adult literature and discusses how humor can be employed to address adolescent issues with grace and wit.
Text, artwork, and photographs examine the James Bond character from the 007 films, describing his spy missions, gadgets, vehicles, enemies, allies, and lovers.
